OPAL continues being upbeat-despite Trimet managment throwing out their proposals

Dear AL,

There are rare moments when power shifts. It’s rarely captured on television, and sometimes not even recognized by the people in the room, but history has shown that significant change can happen based on the actions of small groups of people speaking truth to power—and then organizing in larger numbers so their truth cannot be ignored.

Read Trimet managements response to OPAL HERE starting on page 14

The April meeting of the TriMet board was one of those moments. The people in power – the TriMet Board of Directors – were truly listening to and taking direction from the very people they are appointed to serve.

OPAL’s Bus Riders Unite (BRU) leaders had the floor – working-class folks, people of color, immigrants, youth, seniors and people with disabilities. After months of tedious research and grassroots community organizing, OPAL members presented our BRU Budget Alternative, which combines the best ideas from TriMet with community-generated ideas from transit riders that reflect the needs and priorities of the community.

We have shown that it is possible to strike a balanced approach on the budget that both saves costs and generates revenue without devastating fare hikes and service cuts. The TriMet board has taken notice, and praised OPAL for our proactive, solutions-oriented and respectful approach while committing to rigorous and careful consideration of the alternatives.

The next six weeks are critical. We must keep the pressure on TriMet and continue to mobilize our community to ensure that our proposal is fully considered and the final budget reflects our community priorities. Please join us at both of these two upcoming events to take a stand for transit justice and support OPAL’s BRU Budget Alternative.

Bus Riders Unite Membership Meeting
Wednesday, April 16 (5:30-8pm)
Center for Intercultural Organizing
700 N. Killingsworth Street
Portland, OR 97217

Food will be served at 5:30pm, and the meeting starts at 6pm. Childcare will be provided. Please email hector@opalpdx.org or call OPAL at 503-928-4354 to RSVP. We look forward to seeing you there!

TriMet Board of Directors Meeting
Wednesday, May 23 (9am-11am)
City of Portland Building
1120 SW 5^th Avenue, Room C
Portland, OR

Please contact Hector (hector@opalpdx.org) if you’re interested in coming and let us know if you’re interested in testifying in support of the Bus Riders Unite Budget Alternative. 

With deep appreciation,

-Myrna, Hector, Jared, Khanh, Jon, and all of us here at OPAL